1 How did the Ottoman Turks defeat the Byzantine Empire? What was the basis of their military strength?2 Discuss the religious and political issues that separated the Ottoman Turks and the Safavid Turks, two neighboring Islamic states, in the sixteenth century.3 By what steps did Shah Abbas achieve a strong and unified Safavid state?4 What was Babur's assessment of India? Why did he decide to remain?5 Compare Akbar's policies with those of Aurangzeb.6 What aspects of these Islamic empires made political succession so uncertain? What often happened when the ruler died?7 What were some of the principal commodities traded in and out of the Islamic states? Which state had the most to offer western merchants?8 Identify and compare the status of religious minorities within the three Islamic empires. Which empire faced the greatest challenges in this regard?9 What factors led to the economic and military decline of the Islamic empires?